When it comes to holiday meals, few dishes are as iconic and mouthwatering as a crispy fried turkey. Whether you’re hosting a traditional Thanksgiving dinner or looking for a unique twist on your next family gathering, we’ve got you covered with 18 incredible fried turkey recipes that will satisfy any crowd.
From classic Southern-style deep-frying to bold flavors like Cajun spices and Korean gochujang glaze, our collection of crispy fried turkey recipes is the perfect place to start planning your next memorable meal. So grab a plate, get ready to get your hands dirty, and let’s dive into the world of crunchy, juicy, and utterly delicious fried turkeys!
Classic Southern Deep-Fried Turkey
Get ready to experience the ultimate Southern comfort food with this crispy and juicy classic deep-fried turkey recipe. Perfect for special occasions or family gatherings, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Submerge the turkey in the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated.
3. Let the turkey marinate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 375°F (190°C).
5. Remove the turkey from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
6. Fry the turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes
Cajun Spiced Fried Turkey with Garlic Butter
Get ready to spice up your holiday gathering with this mouthwatering Cajun-inspired fried turkey recipe, infused with the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for about 2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. While the turkey is cooking, melt the butter and garlic in a small saucepan over medium heat.
6. Once the turkey is done, brush the garlic butter all over the surface.
7. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Buttermilk Brined Fried Turkey with Herbs
Give your Thanksgiving turkey a flavorful twist with this simple yet impressive recipe. A buttermilk brine and crispy fried exterior, infused with fresh herbs, will make this centerpiece the star of the show.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp dried thyme
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large container, whisk together buttermilk, kosher salt, brown sugar, and black pepper.
2. Add thyme and parsley; stir to combine.
3. Submerge turkey in brine, refrigerating for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
4. Preheat oil in a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
5. Remove turkey from brine, pat dry with paper towels.
6. Fry turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Drain on paper towels; let rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Cajun Fried Turkey with Hot Sauce Glaze
Elevate your Thanksgiving game with this bold and flavorful turkey recipe, infused with the spicy kick of cayenne pepper and the tanginess of hot sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Hot sauce glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour mixture and whisk until smooth.
3. Dip turkey into the egg mixture, then coat with the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
5. To make hot sauce glaze, mix 1/2 cup hot sauce with 1/4 cup honey and 1 tbsp butter in a small bowl.
Cooking Time:
– Frying time: approximately 30-40 minutes
– Total cooking time: about 45-60 minutes
Hot Sauce Glaze:
1. Brush glaze over turkey during the last 10 minutes of frying.
2. Serve warm with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Garlic and Herb Infused Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this savory Garlic and Herb Infused Fried Turkey recipe. A perfect blend of flavors, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– All-purpose flour, for dredging
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme.
3. Rub the garlic-herb mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season the turkey with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Dredge the turkey in flour, shaking off excess.
6. Carefully place the turkey in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until golden brown.
7. Remove the turkey from the oil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Fried Turkey with Lime Crema
Elevate your turkey game with this bold and tangy recipe that combines the smokiness of chipotles with the brightness of lime crema. Perfect for a special occasion or just a flavorful twist on a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Lime Crema (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, chipotle peppers, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add turkey to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove turkey from marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
5. Fry turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Sweet Tea Brined Fried Turkey
Sweet Tea Brined Fried Turkey Recipe
A Southern twist on traditional turkey, this recipe combines the sweetness of sweet tea with the savory flavor of fried turkey for a truly mouthwatering dish. Perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 quart sweet tea
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 gallon buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spices and seasonings of your choice (e.g. paprika, garlic powder, onion powder)
Instructions:
1. In a large container, whisk together sweet tea, kosher salt, and brown sugar until dissolved.
2. Submerge the turkey in the brine solution, cover, and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
3. Preheat buttermilk by adding 1 tablespoon of baking soda per quart of milk. Stir until dissolved.
4. Remove the turkey from the brine, pat dry with paper towels, and dip in buttermilk mixture, then coat in your choice of spices and seasonings.
5. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F.
6. Fry the turkey for about 3-4 minutes per pound, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes
Korean-Style Fried Turkey with Gochujang Glaze
Elevate your holiday turkey game with this sweet and spicy Korean-inspired twist. Crispy fried turkey meets the bold flavors of gochujang glaze, perfect for a unique and delicious celebration.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup gochujang paste
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Remove giblets and pat dry the turkey with paper towels.
4. Dredge the turkey in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Fry the turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, whisk together gochujang paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
7. Brush the glaze all over the fried turkey during the last 10 minutes of cooking time.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours to fry the turkey, plus an additional 30 minutes for the glaze.
Lemon Pepper Fried Turkey with Rosemary
This refreshing twist on traditional fried turkey adds a burst of citrus flavor from lemon pepper and the earthy aroma of rosemary, perfect for your next holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon pepper seasoning and olive oil.
4. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Sprinkle chopped rosemary evenly across the surface of the turkey.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for 3-3 1/2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Cooking Time: 3-3 1/2 hours
Honey Glazed Fried Turkey with Thyme
Elevate your turkey game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the richness of honey glaze with the earthiness of thyme. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, and melted butter until well combined.
4. Add thyme sprigs to the glaze mixture and stir to combine.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and brush the glaze all over the bird, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast for approximately 3-4 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-4 hours
Jerk Seasoned Fried Turkey with Mango Salsa
This Caribbean-inspired dish combines the flavors of jerk seasoning, crispy fried turkey, and sweet mango salsa for a mouthwatering main course or appetizer. Perfect for a unique twist on Thanksgiving dinner or a tropical-themed party.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-5 pound) whole turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
– For the Mango Salsa:
+ 2 ripe mangos, diced
+ 1/4 cup red onion, diced
+ 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
+ 2 tablespoons lime juice
+ 1 tablespoon honey
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, jerk seasoning, and salt. Add the turkey breast and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Remove the turkey from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Dredge the turkey in flour, shaking off excess.
4. Fry the turkey for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
5. For the Mango Salsa, combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (depending on the size of the turkey breast)
Parmesan Crusted Fried Turkey Cutlets
Elevate your turkey game with this crispy and flavorful recipe that’s sure to please. Crunchy Parmesan crust gives way to tender, juicy turkey cutlets.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey cutlets (1/2 inch thick)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each turkey cutlet in the flour mixture, then eggs, and finally panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the coated turkey cutlets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Maple Bourbon Glazed Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday gathering with this sweet and savory Maple Bourbon Glazed Fried Turkey recipe. A perfect blend of flavors, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and bourbon.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
4. Pat dry the turkey with paper towels.
5. Brine the turkey in the maple-bourbon mixture for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
6. Remove the turkey from the brine and pat dry with paper towels.
7. Dredge the turkey in the olive oil mixture, shaking off excess.
8. Place the turkey on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet.
9. Roast the turkey for about 3-4 hours or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-4 hours
Blackened Fried Turkey with Cajun Remoulade
This Southern-inspired dish combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning and crispy fried turkey with a tangy, creamy remoulade sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a flavorful twist on Thanksgiving dinner.
Ingredients:
For the turkey:
– 1 (4-6 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons blackening seasoning
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
For the remoulade:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon ketchup
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped scallions
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer or a large skillet to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together the blackening seasoning and buttermilk.
3. Dip the turkey into the buttermilk mixture, coating it evenly.
4. Fry the turkey for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. While the turkey is cooking, mix together the remoulade ingredients in a small bowl.
6. Serve the blackened fried turkey with a dollop of Cajun remoulade on top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Asian Five-Spice Fried Turkey with Hoisin Dip
Elevate your holiday gathering with this flavorful fusion of Asian-inspired flavors and classic fried turkey. This sweet and savory dish is sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons five-spice powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Hoisin dip ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
+ 1/4 cup sour cream
+ 1 tablespoon soy sauce
+ 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, five-spice powder, and honey.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Dip the turkey in flour, shaking off excess.
5. Fry the turkey in hot oil until golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before carving.
7. For the Hoisin dip: Mix all ingredients together in a bowl and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes (including frying time)
Rosemary and Garlic Fried Turkey Breast
Elevate your turkey game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the earthy notes of rosemary with the pungency of garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey breast fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Season turkey breast fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the garlic-rosemary mixture evenly onto both sides of the turkey breasts.
5. Place turkey breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Style Fried Turkey Wings
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic fried wings! This recipe combines the crispy texture of fried chicken with the bold, spicy taste of buffalo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds turkey wings
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each turkey wing into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry wings in batches for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Toss fried wings in buffalo sauce while still warm.
7. Serve immediately with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Panko Crusted Fried Turkey Tenders
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and juicy turkey tenders coated in a light and airy Panko breadcrumb mixture. Perfect for game day gatherings or quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound turkey breast tenders
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Dip each turkey tender into the beaten eggs and then coat in the Panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tenders in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Transfer the fried tenders to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes total (frying + baking)
Summary
Get ready to gobble up some crispy fried turkey goodness! This collection of 18 mouthwatering recipes has got you covered for every occasion. From classic Southern deep-fried turkey to spicy Cajun-inspired dishes, and even Korean-style and Asian-five spice options, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a sweet tea brined or honey glazed twist, these recipes are sure to please. With flavors ranging from smoky chipotle to maple bourbon, you’ll never get bored with the same old turkey again. So go ahead, get creative, and fry up some unforgettable feasts!
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